OBD-II reference

All 9.533 generic OBD-II codes, explained in detail.

Causes, inspection steps and sources — a comprehensive DIY archive. Created and maintained with love for the detail. Good luck and have fun!

Powertrain generic / SAE

P21B4

NOx Adsorber Over Temperature (Bank 1)

A temperature sensor at the NOx adsorber on bank 1 reports a value above the safe limit. Sustained over-temperature destroys the storage washcoat.

SystemPowertrain
Typegeneric / SAE
GroupP2
Range / number1 / B4

Possible causes

  • Runaway desulphation regeneration high

Symptoms

  • Check engine light or NOx warning on
  • AdBlue/DEF level or quality warning
  • Possible no-start countdown after ignore period
  • Failed emissions inspection (NOx)

Inspection / repair

  • Difficulty: hard
  • DIY: shop recommended
  • Estimated cost: 200–4000 €
  • Estimated time: 1.5–8 h
  • Component: nox adsorber catalyst
  • Component: exhaust temperature sensor
  • MIL / check engine light
  • emissions-relevant
  • limp mode possible

Sources

References

How to read OBD-II codes

The first letter names the vehicle system, the second digit distinguishes generic from manufacturer-specific, the remaining digits group fault area and number.

PPowertrain: engine, transmission, emissions
BBody: chassis trim, comfort, interior
CChassis: suspension, brakes, steering
UNetwork: CAN, control modules, communication